There’s weird memorabilia, and then there’s this.
Willie Mays’ personally worn and signed boxer shorts are currently up for sale in the Lelands Summer Classic Auction, for those who want to do a lot of explaining about what’s on display in their home.
The signed white Hanes underwear auction will go through Aug. 16, but the leading bid as of early Saturday afternoon is $125 for the legendary undergarments.
“Mays used to wear a baseball cap a size too small so that the cap would dramatically fly off when he was chasing a fly ball or careening around the bases. There is no evidence that he likewise worn his underwear a size too small,” the lot description says.
“The offered underwear has a ‘Hanes’ manufacturer’s tag on the back of the elastic band at the waist. This tag has machine printing showing a size S [small], for a 30/32 waist, very trim for such a power hitter. The tag also indicates that the underwear is ‘100% cotton.’ The underwear has a pouch fly.
“Each leg of the underwear measures 12′ from the top of the waist elastic to the bottom of the leg. On the front of the elastic is ’24 Mays 24,’ and on the back of the elastic is 24,’ all written in black marker by an unknown hand. On the inside back waist elastic, Mays has signed ‘Willie Mays,’ in blue marker. The signature darkness is somewhat uneven, as some parts of the signature are clearly apparent, but lighter in tone than other parts. The underwear seems to show use, yet it remains in very good condition.”
Mays, who died last summer, is widely considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time, having been elected to the Hall of Fame after winning two MVPs during his time with the Giants — both the New York and San Francisco versions — before ending his career with the Mets in 1973.
So this could be an unconventional way to get an autograph if a ball or jersey feels expensive.
Just don’t put it in the wash by accident.
“Remember, this is not just underwear; it’s Willie Mays’ underwear,” the description goes on. “If you are searching for an unusual addition to your sports collection, one that your friends will almost assuredly not possess, one that will create interest and spark some humorous repartee, this is it!”
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